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Family-Based Visas
What Are Family-Based Visas?
Family-based visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain relatives for immigration. These visas are divided into two main categories:
- Immediate Relative Visas: For spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens.
- Family Preference Visas: For more distant relatives such as siblings, married children, and relatives of green card holders. These categories have annual limits on visa numbers.
- Immediate Relative Visas
- Immediate relatives (spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens) have priority and do not face annual visa quotas. This includes:
- IR-1/CR-1 Visa: For spouses of U.S. citizens.
- IR-2 Visa: For unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens.
- IR-5 Visa: For parents of U.S. citizens.
- Family Preference Visas
Family preference visas are divided into five preference categories:
- F1: Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens.
- F2A: Spouses and unmarried minor children of lawful permanent residents.
- F2B: Unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents.
- F3: Married children of U.S. citizens.
- F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is over 21).
How to Apply for a Family-Based Visa?
To apply for a family-based visa, the U.S. citizen or green card holder files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish the family relationship. Once the petition is approved, the relative can apply for an immigrant visa or, if they are already in the U.S., adjust their status by filing Form I-485.
What Supporting Documents Are Required?
You’ll need to submit evidence proving the family relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary. Common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other legal proof of the relationship. For foreign-language documents, certified translations are required.
Visa Processing Times and Priority Dates
Visa availability for family preference categories is based on priority dates, which determine the waiting time for a visa to become available. The Visa Bulletin, published monthly by the U.S. Department of State, shows when immigrant visas are available based on the applicant’s priority date and country of origin.
What Happens If My Family-Based Visa Is Denied?
Denials are typically due to incomplete applications, lack of proof of relationship, or ineligibility. If denied, applicants can file an appeal or submit a new petition with additional evidence.
How Translations Certified Can Help?
Submitting accurate, USCIS-compliant documentation is key to avoiding delays in your family-based visa petition. Translations Certified provides certified and notarized translations for all required documents, ensuring your petition is processed smoothly. Whether it’s a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other vital records, we ensure your documents meet U.S. immigration standards.
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the information is accurate and current, it is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation or legal questions.